Tiny But Mighty, One Of The Smallest State Parks In Texas Is A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring

We've talked at length about the largest state park in Texas, but what about the smallest state park in Texas, which also happens to be home to the Old Tunnel State Park bats? Tucked away in Fredericksburg, Old Tunnel State Park is a historic site that's also home to over three million bats! Watch them emerge and stroll through the lush Hill Country landscape for a day well spent at one of the best state parks in Texas.

Old Tunnel History

Old Tunnel State Park sits on just 16 acres of land in South Fredericksburg. It's the smallest state park in Texas as well as the newest, having been established in 2012.

Despite its small size, thousands of visitors flock to Old Tunnel State Park to take in its incredible sights.

Let's learn some Old Tunnel State Park history, shall we? A designated Texas Historical Marker, the park has a rich and fascinating past dating to the mid-1800s.

Its namesake, a gaping tunnel cutting through a solid limestone hill, was used by the San Antonio, Fredericksburg, and Northern Railway until 1941 before it was decommissioned after being deemed unessential.

It was the first railroad tunnel east of the Pecos River - a pretty impressive feat back in those days. At 920 feet long, it's a testament to the dedication of Fredericksburg's hard workers.

Even today, it's still the only railroad tunnel in the Texas Hill Country.

Experience a bit of history at this old railroad.

There's an eerie beauty surrounding this deserted railroad. As you walk along this dilapidated piece of history, you can almost hear the roaring train whistle as it rumbles over the wooden tracks.

Bat Sightings

The park might be tiny, but it sure is mighty. It provides a seasonal home for over three million bats, and you can watch them emerge at dusk as they begin their nightly search for a meal.

Most of the bats are Mexican free-tailed, however, there are also about 3,000 cave myotis bats in the mix. The best time to view bats at Old Tunnel State Park is May 1 through October 31, when visitors can gaze in awe as the sky turns into a swirling mass of flapping wings and primal hunger.

Visitors must have a bat viewing ticket to remain in the park past 5 p.m. May 1 through Oct. 31. Tickets are not available on-site; they must be purchased either online or by calling the Customer Service Center.

You can view the bats from either the upper or lower deck. The capacity for the upper deck is 250 people, but only 70 for the lower deck — which obviously means it's the one you should try for if you get there in time. Apparently, you can feel the wind generated by the swarm of bats flapping their wings!

The bat viewing areas are accessible for those with mobility impairments.

If you'd like to learn more about the bats, you can sit in on the nightly educational program held during bat season.

Old Tunnel Ghost Stories

Although Old Tunnel State Park is far more fascinating than spooky, there are a few ghost stories surrounding it.

Some rumors claim that because the tunnel is so narrow, several passengers who were unlucky enough to have fallen off the train got run over; their spirits are said to haunt the tunnel to this day. As far as I know, however, nobody has ever experienced any paranormal activity in the park.

Others claim the bats themselves impart a certain unmistakable eeriness.

These creatures are beautiful, of course, but we all know they're the subject of plenty of folklore. Who likes a good vampire story?

Hiking In Old Tunnel State Park

While the bats are the main attraction, there are two Old Tunnel State Park trails that weave through the lush terrain. They're both on a decline, as the parking lot is situated above the tunnel, so they should be suitable for most skill levels.

The most popular hike is a half-mile nature trail that runs through the park, so you can get a bit of exercise and sightseeing in before the bats come out. It is fairly primitive and can get steep at times, but the views make it all worth it.

Just wait until you see the sweeping Hill Country views! You'll definitely want to pull out your camera and snap a few photos.

Please note that there is no Old Tunnel State Park camping allowed.

You'll also see an abundance of vegetation and wildlife, from brightly colored flowers to butterflies and even white-tailed deer.

With so much to see and do, it's easy to see why Old Tunnel State Park is one of the best state parks in Texas.

Please note that children under four are not allowed on the lower viewing platform. Visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife website for more information about the park, including current hours and entrance fees.

Have you ever visited the smallest state park in Texas to see the Old Tunnel State Park bats? If so, do you think it's one of the best state parks in Texas? We'd love to hear all about your experience in the comments! And if you're looking for restaurants near Old Tunnel State Park, I highly recommend the Rathskeller, which is located in an 1800s building and accessible via a secret underground entrance.

Did you know one of the best hiking trails in America is hiding right here in Texas? The Santa Elena Canyon Trail is under two miles long, but it offers some of the most remarkable views you'll ever see. Learn more about it (plus other bucket-list-worthy hikes in the U.S.) in this video by us at OnlyInYourState: